Taylor Honored in Bizerte Scrap
Commissioned, Given D. S. C. by Army
“For extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy,” during which he helped hold up an “estimated German division, cut communications and threw the stereotyped German mind into confusion,” Leo Taylor, first sergeant of the commandos on that December day in 192 has been commissioned a first lieutenant and awarded the distinguished service cross.
In a citation received here by his mother, Mrs. Gertrude Taylor, 1229 Sixth avenue, Taylor’s commanding officer wrote, “for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy during a raid on the coast west of Bizerte, Tunisian, he voluntarily advanced four hundred yards over open terrain in the face of heavy enemy machine gun fire to retrieve a vitally needed radio set. This action permitted the re-establishment of radio communications with other units of the attacking force which aided in the successful withdrawal of his unit from the raid and is in keeping with the highest traditions of the service.”
Lt. Taylor was one of the first to leave Council Bluffs at the outbreak of the war. He fought in the Silver Gloves tournament and wrestled at Thomas Jefferson high school during his high school career which was short lived due to his enlistment in the State guards at the age of 18. Now 21, he has been over there making merry hell for Hitler’s befuddled warriors for a few years now and isn’t planning to come until the Germans get enough of it.
Source: The Council Bluffs Nonpareil, Council Bluffs, Iowa, Wednesday, March 22, 1944, p. 2 (photo included)
